Atlanta vs Dhaka: Cost of Living Comparison
The cost of living gap between Atlanta, USA, and Dhaka, Bangladesh, is one of the most significant geographic price divides globally. Atlanta represents a high-cost, high-income Western hub, while Dhaka offers one of the world's most affordable urban environments. Choosing between these two depends heavily on your income source and lifestyle expectations, as the difference in purchasing power and infrastructure is immense.
Is Atlanta more expensive than Dhaka?
Yes, Atlanta is substantially more expensive than Dhaka. On average, consumer prices in Atlanta are approximately 180% higher than in Dhaka, excluding rent. When rent is factored in, the disparity grows even larger. However, it is vital to note that the local purchasing power in Atlanta is over 400% higher than in Dhaka. This means that while things cost more in Atlanta, the average resident has significantly more disposable income to cover those costs compared to the average resident in Dhaka.
Housing and Real Estate in Atlanta vs Dhaka
Housing is the primary driver of the cost difference. Rent in Atlanta is roughly 600% higher than in Dhaka. A standard one-bedroom apartment in Atlanta's city center typically costs between $1,800 and $2,300 per month. In contrast, a similar apartment in a decent area of Dhaka can be found for $250 to $450. For those looking to buy property, the price per square foot in Atlanta’s urban core is exponentially higher, though the quality of construction and legal protections differ significantly between the two markets.
Dining and Grocery Costs
Food costs in Dhaka are significantly lower for local produce and dining. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Atlanta costs around $20, whereas a similar meal in Dhaka costs approximately $3 to $5. Groceries such as rice, vegetables, and chicken are 50% to 150% cheaper in Dhaka. However, imported Western goods (like cheese or specific electronics) in Dhaka can often be more expensive than in Atlanta due to high import tariffs and logistics costs.
Public Transit and Commuting
Transportation dynamics are vastly different. Atlanta is a car-dependent city where gasoline, insurance, and maintenance represent a major monthly expense. Dhaka is characterized by high-density traffic and a mix of rickshaws, CNGs (auto-rickshaws), and a newly developing Metro Rail system. While public transport and ride-hailing are incredibly cheap in Dhaka (often less than $1 per trip), the 'cost' of commuting is often measured in time due to some of the world's worst traffic congestion.
Utilities and Entertainment
Basic utilities for a standard apartment in Atlanta (electricity, heating, water) average around $180–$250 per month, while in Dhaka, they typically hover around $60–$100. High-speed internet is generally more reliable and cheaper in Atlanta. Lifestyle expenses like gym memberships or cinema tickets are roughly 2 to 3 times more expensive in Atlanta, though Atlanta offers a wider variety of large-scale entertainment and recreational green spaces.
How to get from Atlanta to Dhaka
There are currently no direct flight routes between Atlanta (ATL) and Dhaka (DAC). Travelers typically connect through major international hubs. The most common routes involve layovers in Middle Eastern cities like Doha (Qatar Airways) or Dubai (Emirates), or European hubs like Istanbul (Turkish Airlines). Total travel time usually ranges from 21 to 26 hours.
The Verdict: Atlanta or Dhaka?
For digital nomads or expats earning a Western salary in USD, Dhaka offers an exceptionally low cost of living that allows for a high level of luxury (domestic help, premium housing) at a fraction of US prices. However, Atlanta is the clear winner for families and professionals seeking world-class infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Atlanta offers a balanced high-cost, high-reward lifestyle, whereas Dhaka offers extreme affordability paired with significant urban challenges.
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